That is a most interesting and informative, if heartrending,
post, Albert. I learned a lot from it - a lot I would have preferred not to have
known. I knew the Port Royal Jansenists were Cartesians and engaged in animal
experimentation, but I did not know the grounds (beyond the customary
Malebranchian animal machines nonsense). Your additional information adds a
level of explanation I had not previously encountered. Nor did I know of the St.
Jean Baptiste practice of throwing an animal on the bonfire. What animal? What
French city? The shrew in a tree was also unknown to me. I would really
appreciate it if you could let me know your sources. Mzny thanks, Albert, for
the very useful information.